MATUNGA, SEPTEMBER 17, 2010: The dawn of September 10, 2010 saw a group of forty-five people from tiny tots and their parents to youngsters and working youth, venture out together on the road to the Lord’s RANCH which is around an hour and half from the upcoming township of Lavasa in Pune.
The theme chosen by our group was RANCH- REACHING A NEW CONFIDENT HORIZON. The sole aim was to experience a retreat where one focused on Oneself, God’s awesome creation, an experience of ‘lively faith’.
The journey commenced by bus from Don Bosco, Borivli, with the major part of the group being picked up at Don Bosco Youth Services, Matunga. The latter part of the journey was by a boat and then a jeep.
The long journey was made interesting and memorable with Bible quizzes, games and songs of praises to the Lord in which everyone sportingly participated. The beauty of nature was overwhelming, as we travelled at a quick pace. The Ranch itself is surrounded by awesome mountains overlooking the lake; with God’s presence and peace looming all over.
Up at the Ranch, the Retreat was brightened with songs of praise to the Lord which involved many interesting action songs. In addition we had meaningful sessions, moments of reflection, celebration of the Eucharist and formation and growth sessions which showed a path for transformation.
The speakers Fr. Glenn, Fr. Brian, Mr. Hillary and Mrs. Adeline, accentuated that we need to build a stronger relation with God, love and appreciate the beautiful persons that we are, follow the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do) approach in our day to day life and live daringly for God and Self.
As we travelled back to Mumbai on September 12, we were filled with gratitude to our amazing God, who has been so good to us, who loves and cares for us. The RANCH indeed helped us ‘Reach A New Confident Horizon’.
As Bro. Hillary, the owner of the Ranch whose trust in the God of the Impossible shaped the Ranch, will humbly say, “Take a break at the Lord’s Ranch young and young at heart, individuals and companies and enjoy the unique peace and serene beauty you encounter here – a paradise on earth”